Trying to choose a tripod is driving me crazy!

[Ken Tanaka]

I don't mean to be a politician, but I own and use all three. The Miller is a very good run and gun rig for the small cameras so common around here. It's light, quick to set up and just a plain likable piece of equipment. It will easily handle a standard XL1/XL1S/XL2 although it can become a bit overwhelmed with an XL configured as Frankencam.

The ultimate in performance and flexibility is the Vinten Vision 3. If you want to put the tripod/head matter to rest once and for all, and if you have a budget that affords it, this is the one to get.

The Sachtler is a good rig, somewhere between the two. It's real claim to fame is its durability.

Finally, I would recommend that folks keep this whole tripod/head selection issue in proper perspective. The fact of the matter is that most folks here are either hobbyists, part-time wedding shooters, or young people with aspirations to become wealthy and famous filmmakers. Yes, a good rig is nice to have. But it's far less important than basic skills. If you are weak at composition and basic photography a $2500 rig won't make you any better. A decent, modestly-priced rig, like one of the VolksRigs (Bogen) will serve most folks just fine. If you're a hobbyist, let's be honest, the rig will spend most of its time in the closet. If you're and aspiring filmmaker it will eventually find its way to the closet. If you're a busy wedding shooter pick the rig that's most comfortable to schlep and easiest to set-up. Believe me, nobody in a wedding is going to be impressed by, or even slightly aware of, your brand of tripod. It won't deliver a rate increase to you, either.

So I merely advise exercising good, balanced financial judgment concerning the true value to you of this expense.

[Hart Boyd]

Thanks you provide the answer I needed and I think you last statement about proper perspective is right on the money.